Choir Boy

Choir Boy on Broadway Background

Choir Boy was written by Moonlight co-author and Academy Award winner Tarell Alvin McCraney in his highly anticipated Broadway debut. His past Off-Broadway works include Head of Passes, Wig-Out and In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue, which inspired the Oscar winning film, Moonlight.

This show was commissioned by the Manhattan Theatre Club and had its World Premiere Off-Broadway at Manhattan Theatre Club's Stage II in June 2013. The Broadway production reunites many members of the cast and crew from the Off-Broadway show. Tony winner Chuck Cooper (The Life, Amazing Grace) returns as Headmaster Marrow, Tony nominee Austin Pendleton (The Little Foxes, Fiddler on the Roof) returns as Mr. Pendleton, and Jeremy Pope returns as Pharus. The original Off-Broadway director, Trip Cullman (Lobby Hero, Significant Other), returns to lead the Broadway production. Choir Boy is a beautiful show that tackles difficult and complex themes with grace and song.

What's Choir Boy Like?

After premiering Off-Broadway to rave reviews in 2013, Choir Boy transferred to Broadway after a five year hiatus. The protagonist Pharus has waited years to assume his rightful position as leader of the gospel choir. However, Pharus is a young man grappling with his sexuality at an all-boys school. Although he is not ashamed of the fact that he is gay, he has not publicly come out. After he is taunted at a choir performance, Pharus struggles to decide how to lead while remaining true to who he is. He must also learn what it takes to evoke change within an institution such as Drew Prep. The play also addresses the disagreement over whether young black men should be educated in a British prep-school setting. Such important discussions are dealt with in a creative way, usually with the choir members’ everyday disagreements.

Is Choir Boy Good for Kids?

This show is recommended for children ages 13 and up.